Saturday reader's view: Words of wisdom

By the Midland Daily News

Published 4:00 am, Saturday, July 11, 2015

To the editor:

What in life is better than a “good friend?” Nothing!

I have many good friends who often send me words of encouragement which I receive and appreciate — and need! So, many years ago, I received several “words of wisdom” which I would now like to pass on to you, my good readers. I hope you enjoy. If you have any other ones, please send them on to me. Oh yeah, I suggest you put this list on your fridge as a reminder!

• Give people more than they expect, and do so cheerfully.

• Don’t believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you’d like.

• Don’t say “I love you” unless you really mean it.

• When you say, “I’m sorry,” look the person in the eye.

• Be engaged at least six months before you get married.

• Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it’s the only way to live life completely.

• In disagreement, fight fair. No name calling.

• Don’t judge people by their relatives.

• When someone asks you a question you don’t want to answer, smile and ask, “Why do you want to know?”

• Call your mom.

• Say “God bless you” when you hear someone sneeze.

• Don’t let a little squabble damage a good friendship.

• When you realize you have made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

• Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.

• Marry someone you love to talk to. As you get older, good conversation will be one of the principal elements of an enduring relationship.

• Remember, sometimes silence is the answer.

• Read more books and watch less TV.

• In disagreements with loved ones, deal with the current situation. Don’t bring up the past.